Should the public be allowed on your farm

For farmers considering getting into food tourism one of the biggest questions and challenges is ‘should the public walk on to the farm?’ and ‘do you want the public on the premises when farm activities are taking place?’ As in any business decision there are advantages and disadvantages and we will try to summarize these here. Advantages 1. It allows the farmer to supply fresh produce directly to the consumer. 2. The opportunity to get immediate payment for what you have sold. 3. Eliminates transport costs. 4. It allows the farmer to engage with the consumer and get instant feedback from consumers on the produce and what other offers the farmer can provide. 5. Prices are controlled by the farmer, not others in the ‘supply chain’. 6. Niche products can be tested and established. All family members can be involved in developing the ‘on-site’ business. 7. Increases local awareness of what is grown locally and this message should spread through the community. 8. Improves the long-term security of the farm’s survival. 9. It allows the farmer to experiment with marketing techniques. Disadvantages 1. Lack of time. Farming is about producing the crop and maintaining the farm, involvement with the public will take extra time. 2. The day will become extended as the farmer will also need to put in extra hours, especially over the weekend. 3. Diversification of product grown will be needed to provide the consumer with a range and to increase the income on the farm.
4. Customers are ‘king’. You cannot afford to upset one, the message will soon spread. 5. Capital investment will be needed to build structures that are safe for public access. 6. Public safety and other regulations that involve dealing with the public will have to be adhered to. 7. The site may need to be modified to make sure public access is suitable and complies with legal requirements. 8. Do the neighbouring farmers approve of the venture? 9. Do you enjoy dealing with people?